Many streams and rivers in Australia only flow during the wet season – in between seasons the casuarina seeds washed down in the last flood take root and grow. The lucky ones survive next years flood. The river gives life and just as easily takes it away.

Frosty air made me fumble the match and it tumbled into the pile of broken twigs I had piled beneath my *billy. Only one match remained in the box. With some trepidation I withdrew it and dragged it along the striker. Orange flame danced at the end of the splinter of wood and I touched it to my tinder pile. Sparks rose quickly in the thermal draft. Anticipation grew as I added coffee. Aroma lifted my spirits and I knew today would be my day.

*a billy is an Australian term for a kettle or tin used for brewing coffee or tea over a campfire.